Ginebra import overwhelmed by 'rock star' treatment

Justin Brownlee's buzzer-beating three-point shot that won the title for Barangay Ginebra has made the import an instant hero for Ginebra fans.

This is why he was given a "rock star" treatment during their victory party at the SMC compound, one that made him temporarily forget his NBA dreams.

“Honestly, I don’t want to play anywhere else besides the Philippines, especially with the fans, how they embrace me, how great of a team Ginebra is,” said Brownlee in Spin.

“Coach Tim [Cone] is probably the best coach I ever played for especially professionally.”

Brownlee said he looks forward to returning next year, which could be as early as the mid-season Commissioner’s Cup.

He has played in Italy, Mexico, and France and admitted dreaming of making it to the NBA someday. But playing in the Philippines is different, he said.

“To be honest, I never really think about the NBA [now],” said Brownlee. “Of course, that may be every child’s dream and, of course, it was my dream as well to be able to play in the NBA. If I get the opportunity, it’ll be a blessing. It’s always been a dream of mine.”

“But if not, I’d definitely love to come here as long as my career would let me,” he added. “Playing here is probably the most fun I’ve ever had playing basketball.”